Raised ALT,AST and GGT

[carolinebelsize]

I had blood tests done and had raised ALT,AST, and GGT. My doctor told me to stop taking the statin I take, atorvastatin. Has anymone else heard of atorvastatin raising these levels?

[GrittyReads]

Hi, I'm afraid I can't help, but I can't help wondering if you need to say a bit more about your condition. For example, do you already have a liver condition, and have these 'bloods' previously been more stable?

I think for anyone to give a good advice they may feel they need more info.

Hope someone can help - or contact the BLT, link info at the top of the page, their trained advisors are very good.

[AyrshireK]

If you read up on that particular statin ( details on drugs.com page at :- drugs.com/atorvastatin.html ) It says it is NOT to be used in people who have a pre-existing liver condition and if you read on the page headed side effects and the guidance for medical professions regarding potential side effects it states the following:-

Hepatic

Common (1% to 10%): Blood bilirubin increased, ALT increased, transaminases/hepatic enzymes increased, AST increased, liver function test abnormal, blood alkaline phosphatase increased

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Hepatitis

Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Cholestasis

Very rare (less than 0.1%): Fatal hepatic failure, nonfatal hepatic failure

So in 1 - 10% of users a rise in LFT's occurs. This is a common happening and the reason which those prescribed with Atorvastatin have to have regular blood tests and monitoring.

Katie

[carolinebelsize in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks very much for that link and info, much appreciated. Caroline